Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson is expected to attract significant attention from several top clubs when the transfer market reopens. The in-demand player has caught the eye of multiple suitors, with the speculation surrounding his future intensifying as the season draws to a close.
Manchester City appear to be leading the race for his signature, though Manchester United have also been strongly associated with the England international. Arsenal have likewise been credited with monitoring the situation, while Newcastle United would welcome the opportunity to reacquire their former player.
According to reports via Sky Sports, Chelsea are attempting to disrupt the pursuit by both Manchester clubs. The west London club is preparing to enter the competition for the Forest player’s services.
A fee in the region of £100 million has been suggested, potentially increasing further should the club avoid relegation and the player performs well at the World Cup. The Telegraph reports such a figure could prove too costly for Manchester United, leaving City as the current frontrunner.
The 22-year-old moved to Forest from St James’ Park in the summer of 2024 for £35 million. The deal effectively cost £15 million after goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos transferred in the opposite direction for £20 million.
Since then, he has established himself as an important figure for both his club and national team. During the previous international break while representing England, questions about his future were posed.
He stated: “We’ve obviously got the World Cup this summer, so all my eyes are on that and playing for England. I’ve obviously got the badge on now, so that’s what I’m thinking about at the moment.”
He was absent from Forest’s Europa League triumph against Porto last week following the passing of his mother, Helen. He returned for Sunday’s significant 4-1 win over Burnley, delivering a memorable performance as tributes were paid to his mother.
Vitor Pereira’s team moved five points clear of the relegation zone with five matches remaining following the victory over the Clarets. They face Sunderland on Friday (8pm kick-off) in another important fixture, before welcoming Aston Villa in the first leg of their Europa League semi-final next Thursday.